Rumours that Ola Jordan wouldn't be returning to Strictly Come Dancing were put to rest on Thursday when she was announced among the list of professionals taking part in this year's show. While the Poland-born beauty had already denied that she was leaving the annual competition at the end of last year, an official statement from the BBC confirmed her as one of the 16 Strictly dancers."We are thrilled with our pro-dancer line up this year," said programme's executive producer Louise Rainbow. "Not only are some of the viewers' favourites returning, but we also have some exciting new dancers joining the Strictly family. I think it’s safe to say that this year's Strictly will be as exciting and entertaining as always."
Ola Jordan's recent knee injury has not stopped her returning to Strictly
Louise's statement referred to the arrival of three brand new dancers who will hit screens later this year, including Russia-born Dancing With The Stars favourite Gleb Savchenko, Italian Giovanni Pernice and eight-times South African Latin American Champion Otlile Mabuse.Not returning to the show are Iveta Lukosiute, who was paired with Thom Evans in series 12, and Trent Whiddon, whose partner last year was Pixie Lott.
Otlile Mabuse has joined the team of professionals
"I really enjoyed my experience on Strictly Come Dancing," said Iveta. "I loved everything about the show, dancers, judges, BBC, celebrities, fans... all of it was a pleasure to be a part of this wonderful show. I always tried to do my very best to show off my celebrity and add as much as I could to the show. "This year I will focus more on my dance school in New York City since I was away so much," she added. "However, I will be more than happy to stay involved with the show in the future. "Australian dancer Trent echoed Iveta's sentiments about enjoying his time on the show, saying: "I was very happy to be part of last season and very thankful for the opportunity."
Gleb Savchenko (left) and Giovanni Pernice have also joined the lineup
The full list of professionals:The men:Aljaž ŠkorjanecAnton Du BekeBrendan ColeGiovanni PerniceGleb SavchenkoKevin CliftonPasha KovalevTristan MacManusThe women:Aliona VilaniJanette ManraraJoanne CliftonKaren HauerKristina RihanoffNatalie LoweOla JordanOtlile Mabuse
